Emergency Alert System
The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is the primary means for providing the public with critical alert information about an emergency or disaster. This Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - mandated system totally replaced the old Emergency Broadcast System as of January 1, 1998. Under EAS rules, radio, TV, and cable TV stations must participate at the National level or specifically request a waiver from the FCC. Further, they are encouraged to voluntarily participate in state and local EAS plans.